The NSW Waratahs have re-signed James Ramm for a further two seasons, keeping the flying outside back in sky blue until the end of the 2022 Super Rugby season.
Making his debut against the Lions at Bankwest Stadium earlier this year, it was a dream first outing for the Randwick product who slid over for a late try to seal a 29-17 win over the visiting South African side.
Amidst the enforced COVID-19 break, Ramm has become a mainstay of Rob Penney’s backline – starting in each of the NSW Waratahs Super Rugby AU fixtures.
Ramm’s pathway to Super Rugby came via St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill Juniors and Randwick alongside the NSW Rugby Gen Blue pathway – with the former gymnastic prodigy hampered by injury in 2019 after performing strongly within the Junior Wallaby program.
Just beyond the mid-way point of Super Rugby AU, Ramm leads the competition in clean breaks (10), sits equal first on defenders beaten (18) and third for metres carried (275).
NSWRU GM of Rugby, Tim Rapp said that Ramm’s signing was one of several young players the club was focused on retaining for 2021 and beyond.
“We’ve got a great history of developing talent through our pathway here in New South Wales with high-end competitions to assist player development – Rammy is another great example of that,” Rapp said.
“He’s worked extremely hard in recent years and dealt with some frustrating injuries, now with some consistent time on the park he’s taken his opportunity and been really impressive.”
NSW Waratahs Head Coach, Rob Penney said the consistency of Ramm’s performances had warranted continued selection in Super Rugby as well as his now contract extension.
“He’s been great for us right throughout the season,” Penney said.
“It’s been really pleasing to see Rammy grow into his position within the team, he’s improving every week which is a testament to all the work he does behind the scenes.
“He’s a fantastic athlete with a great skillset that is only going to improve with experience, he’s a proud New South Welshman and we’re glad he’ll be with us for the next couple of seasons.”
Ramm said that representing his home state had been the culmination of several years of hard work.
“I’m just loving every minute of it,” Ramm said.
“To be a part of this squad and represent the Waratahs is something I’m really proud of, and to have been able to share that [debut] with my family and friends this year is a memory I won’t forget.
“There’s been some frustrating times [with injury] but that’s made this year all the more enjoyable.
“I’m excited to be here at the Waratahs for another two seasons, working alongside the players, coaches and staff that have helped me since I began here at the Academy.”
